The Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) campaign, launched on September 15, reached its conclusion on the eve of Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary, serving as a pivotal moment in India’s commitment to cleanliness and sanitation. Led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this nationwide initiative fostered active participation from citizens across the country. The campaign not only stood as an independent endeavor but also paved the way for the grand observance of ‘Swachh Bharat Diwas’ or ‘Swachhta Diwas’ on October 2 each year.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for cleanliness and sanitation resonated deeply with millions of Indians. Following the culmination of the massive cleanliness drive, India observed ‘Swachh Bharat Diwas’ on October 2, commemorating Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary. Gandhi, a fervent advocate for cleanliness and sanitation, is celebrated on this special day to underscore the significance of maintaining cleanliness in our surroundings.
The ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign witnessed an enthusiastic response from people from diverse backgrounds, including politicians, students, government officials, and everyday citizens. It was a moment of unity, exemplifying the power of community participation in driving transformative change.
Multiple ministries, government departments, and social organizations played active roles in contributing to the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign. Their involvement underscored the joint commitment of the government and civil society in advancing the cause of cleanliness and sanitation, thereby raising awareness about the importance of preserving a clean environment.
During the 105th episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Modi called upon all citizens to join the cleanliness campaign on October 1 under the national initiative ‘Ek Tareekh Ek Ghanta Ek Saath’ (One Date, One Hour, Together). This call to action resonated widely, as people from all corners of the country stepped forward to participate in various cleanliness activities, demonstrating their dedication to Gandhi’s vision of a clean and hygienic India.
Campaign Highlights:
- Campaign Duration: The Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) campaign began on September 15 and culminated on October 1, setting the stage for ‘Swachh Bharat Diwas’ on October 2.
- Community Participation: The primary objective of the campaign was to promote community participation and stress the importance of clean villages and neighborhoods, highlighting sanitation as a collective responsibility.
- SHS-2023 Theme: The theme for SHS-2023 was ‘Garbage Free India,’ with a particular focus on visual cleanliness and the welfare of SafaiMitras (sanitation workers), inspiring a cleaner and more hygienic India.
The ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign’s culmination on Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary stands as a testament to the nation’s unwavering commitment to cleanliness and sanitation. It serves as a reminder that collective efforts, driven by government initiatives and fueled by the active involvement of citizens from all walks of life, have the potential to lead India toward a cleaner and healthier future. Gandhi’s vision of a Swachh Bharat (Clean India) continues to inspire the nation to strive for a better and cleaner tomorrow.